10 Best Climbing Snacks

One of the biggest mistakes a climber can make is not eating. Food for people is the equivalent of gas for cars, and you’re not going to get very far with an empty tank. The best climbing snacks need to be convenient, but they also need to be nutritious.

The best snacks for rock climbing combine the things your body needs to perform – calories, carbs, protein, fats – into a portable package. Here are 10 of the best climbing snacks to try on your next rock climbing trip.

Bars

Granola bars, protein bars, Epic bars, and pretty much any other type of food bar pack a lot of nutrients into a form that’s easy to eat and easy to stuff into your climbing pack. They keep well, there’s no prep, no mess, and the trash is easy to stow.

Jerky

Jerky won’t spoil, won’t get crushed, and contains lots of protein and sodium – both of which are important for outdoor athletes. Best of all, its super tasty.

Nuts

Whether you prefer your almonds, cashews, or peanuts (technically legumes) plain, sweet, or savory, nuts are great climbing snacks. They’re bursting with the nutrients you need to keep climbing hard.

Fruit

Apples, bananas, and oranges are good choices if you don’t mind carrying around peels and cores in your climbing pack. If you feel like being super on top of things, you can prepare apple slices, or pre-peel your orange at home to avoid generating trash outdoors.

Tortillas

Unlike bread, tortillas won’t get crushed in your pack. They make great vessels for your other snack options, and they’re pretty good on their own, too.

Peanut butter

Put it on a sandwich, on fruit, on a tortilla, or eat it straight out of the jar.

Cheese

Cheese is delicious and nutritious, and is a great treat out at the crag. Plus, it comes in a variety of tasty forms. Enjoy cheese sticks, cubes, wheels, blocks, or slices.

Dark chocolate

Calories are crucial when you’re exerting yourself outdoors. A bar of dark chocolate is a great way to fuel your body without feeling bogged down by a full belly.

Avocado

Avocados aren’t the most resilient climbing snack, but they taste good and are good for you. Spoon it out, or spread it on a tortilla.

Trail mix

This is a classic snack for hikers, climbers, and anyone who enjoys getting outdoors. Buy a package at the store or make some at home using your favorite ingredients.